Horse Riding In Patagonia

The Estancia Ride

Experience life as a Patagonian gaucho on this breathtaking, exciting riding trip through Torres del Paine with its unforgettable landscapes, fast paced riding and nights in comfortable lodges and estancias.

Highlights

Experience the unique thrill of horse riding among the immense landscapes of Patagonia
Canter your heart out on soft grassy pampas beneath towering granite peaks
Enjoy a slice of history and Patagonian culture at some beautiful old estancia houses
Feast on succulent lamb roasted gaucho style over a roaring fire
Witness some of the areas’s exotic wildlife such as guanacos, rheas, condors and puma
Take a boat trip for an up close and personal experience of a towering valley glacier
Enjoy a night in a typical Patagonian country house hotel overlooking Last Hope Sound
Sample some local wines with an evening wine tasting
Bond with your smart, responsive, agile Criollo horse, your loyal companion for most of the ride
Experience some of Torres del Paine’s most photographed views through the ears of your horse

Extras

Add boat trip to the face of Grey Glacier, US$135 per person
Single supplement (for those who prefer not to share, on request)

Day by day

Day 1: Arrive into Puerto Natales. Transfer to historic Puerto Bories located on the Senoret Channel a few miles outside Puerto Natales. Sleep in Bories House, an English style villa with traditional Patagonian architecture and comfortable en suite rooms a short walk from Last Hope Sound. Dinner and guide’s briefing at Afrigonia in Puerto Natales offering a fusion of African and Patagonian cuisine.
Day 2: After meeting your horses and enjoying a safety briefing you will be riding north west from Puerto Bories to Puerto Prat following trails along the shores of Last Hope Sound and across farmland, a great introductory ride to get used to the style of riding and your horse who will be your companion for much of the riding to come. After a ride of around 28 kilometres you will be meeting your transfer vehicle to take you the short distance to the outpost town of Cerro Castillo. Night in the comfortable, country house-style Hosteria el Pionero in twin/double rooms with private bathrooms
Day 3: After breakfast, you will be joining your horses in the nearby coral and saddling up for today’s long ride north across the wide open pampas that characterize this part of Patagonia passing a number of large estancias. After around 30 km there will be a stop for lunch at the lovely Estancia San Luis where riders can rest and enjoy a traditional gaucho asado. After lunch we will continue north west to the Rio de las Chinas where there will be an opportunity for riders to continue in the waiting vehicle if they are tired (total distance +12 km). Our destination is Estancia Tercera Barranca located on the eastern borders of the Park with views of the Towers. Night Estancia Tercera in comfortable twin/double rooms, most with en suite bathrooms.
Day 4: Today’s ride of approximately 4-5 hours will take us north through canyons and ravines to the lovely Salto Las Chinas. We will return via a different route to the very pretty Laguna Azul with its captivating turquoise waters and dramatic view of the three Towers of Paine. We will have time to explore the sandy lake beach and the resident wildlife before riding back to Estancia Tercera where we will spend a second night. *Note, you will have a change of horses today to enable your horse to rest.
Day 5: Today you will be setting out on a long ride across the heart of the Park with iconic mountain and lake views as you head from east to west. The full distance is 48 km with 8-9 hours riding although the ride is vehicle supported enabling you to travel in the vehicle for the final part of the trail if you prefer (shortening the ride to 38 km although riders can jump in the van at any point, the ride ends at the Park administration centre). Our destination is the Serrano River with stunning views of the western face of the Paine Massif. Today’s ride is always a highlight of everybody’s itinerary with its iconic Paine views of the mountains from a southern perspective and diverse wildlife. Night in the new, comfortable Morreno Lodge in twin/double rooms with private bathrooms.
Day 6: After your camp breakfast you will be saddling up and riding out to Grey Lake, a stunning pampas ride with mountain views throughout. Arrive at Grey Lake and take a walk on the sandy beach often packed with icebergs floating on its surface. Option to take a boat to the face of Grey Glacier (recommended) for an up close and personal encounter with a towering wall of ice. The ride distance is 35 km there and back although if you choose to take the Grey Boat you will return by vehicle making today’s ride 17 km. Return to the Serrano River for a second night at the lodge.
Day 7: Today’s shorter ride of approx 12 km (3-4 hours) will take you on a circular route to the Mirador Salto Serrano. With grassy valleys, riverside paths and mountain views of Cerro Donoso this gentle ride provides a contrast to the more arid terrain on the east of the Park. Ride back to the Serrano River and meet a private transfer vehicle for the drive back to Puerto Natales*. Night Bories House. Wine tasting and special farewell dinner at El Cormoran de las Rocas. *We are hoping to coordinate the end January ride with the rodeo/country show that takes place in Cerro Castillo.
Day 8: Transfer to bus station or airport for onward travel.

Is this trip for me?

This 8-day exclusive BlueGreen itinerary is suited to experienced riders who wish to combine local culture and comfortable accommodation with outdoor riding adventures. It is designed for those who prefer not to camp.
In the company of an experienced riding guide and Chilean horsemen you will ride into some of the Park’s most iconic scenery and landscapes with plenty of diversity. Throughout these long, exciting days in the saddle the snow capped mountains are never far away. Luggage is moved by vehicle or 4×4 and you are provided with saddle bags to carry water, suncream, lunch box etc.
Accommodation is in a mix of lodgings including a country house hotel, a converted Estancia House, a working Estancia and a comfortable lodge. The accommodation has been chosen in the best locations and to access the best riding away from the main hiking trails. The ride is an authentic experience with as much contact with the local horse culture as possible. The accommodation is comfortable, twin share with private bathrooms throughout.
Riding experience required for this trip is intermediate to advanced. This is a fairly fast paced ride with some long riding days. Fitness and experience are important. The ride is not suitable for beginner riders.
Age limit: 12 – 70 unless by prior arrangement. Young riders need to be experienced and accompanied by an experienced and capable adult. Alternatively, please ask about our custom family trips for riding options for very young riders. Older riders are welcome but may be asked to complete a medical suitability questionnaire.
The trip includes six days riding with varying lengths according to how far you need to ride on a certain day. You will be riding your own assigned horse for the entire trip with the exception of Day 4 when you will ride a different horse to enable your horse to rest (horses will be moved by truck where necessary).
You will be riding with an experienced English speaking riding guide together with between one and three horsemen (baqueanos) depending on the size of the group. Where practical the riding is supported by a vehicle with dedicated driver giving options for riders to rest or cut a ride short if required.
This trip is available on some set departures in the main season starting with a departure on 26 January 2025 with groups of 2+ riders. The maximum group size is an intimate 6 riders. Alternatively, we can arrange the trip on a custom basis for a family or group of riders, subject to availability.
Solo riders are welcome and a single supplement is not charged if you are willing to share with another rider of the same gender (otherwise, ask about the options for single accommodation)
Travel insurance is mandatory as is the wearing of suitable head gear (a full packing list is provided prior to departure).
Prices start at US$5,975 per person (group of 6 riders, 24/25 season). Prices are inclusive of private transfers in/out and vehicle support during the ride where practical; all accommodation and meals stated; English speaking riding guide with Chilean baqueanos to care for the horses; truck to move horses in some areas; all riding and activities as detailed; saddle bags & helmets; entrance fees; ground support provided by our experienced logistics team based in Puerto Natales.
Please contact us for a detailed itinerary.
Ask about our exciting end of season Wild Horse round up ride scheduled for late March/early April (see below).

Destinations

Wild Horse Round Up (end of season, one off date starting on 4 April 2025)

This unique and exclusive 7-day ride will give experienced riders the opportunity to live the gaucho life as you help a local estanciera with rounding up, counting and treating wild horses that live on the arid mountaineous plains close to the border with Argentina. This authentic and worthwhile experience is part of a conservation project with exciting riding and nights in an isolated ranch house with time spent enjoying typical Patagonian meals and customs including a natural horsemanship demonstration by Puchi, a local expert and Horse Whisperer.

Highlights

Experience the unique thrill of horse riding among the immense landscapes of Patagonia
Become part of a unique conservation project as you ride out in search of wild horses
Feast on a traditional gaucho asado under the huge southern skies
Ride out with the true cowboys of the south into Patagonia’s version of the wild west
Chat fireside with your fellow riders and hear the fascinating stories of the local ranchers
Develop new skills as you drive wild horses across the arid plains in an other worldly landscape
Spot guanacos, rhea and possibly pumas in this frontierland flanked by the southern Andes
Enjoy some fast paced and dramatic riding on responsive, trusty Criollo horses
Ride across the heart of Torres del Paine with its breathtaking vistas
Canter across the immense pampas in the shadow of the Paine Massif to Grey Lake
Take a boat trip for an up close and personal encounter with a vertical towering glacier
Learn about natural horsemanship from local Patagonian horse whisperer, Puchi

Riders in front of Paine mountains Steve RoysetRS

Day by day

Day 1: Arrive in Puerto Natales. Afternoon private transfer to the small border outpost of Cerro Castillo on the way to Torres del Paine. Night in the comfortable, country house-style villa of Hosteria el Pionero in twin/double rooms with private bathrooms. Welcome dinner and guide’s briefing.
Day 2: After breakfast we will be jumping in the van for the transfer north east on Route 9 towards the frontierlands close to Argentina and the Baguales and La Cumbre mountains. Our journey takes us along the Baguales River through a dramatic valley towards the snow capped peaks of this mountain range of the same name. Eventually we will arrive at the land belonging to Estancia 3R in the Sierra Baguales with its recently converted Casa Patronal a comfortable, rustic ranch house where you will be spending the next couple of nights in double/twin rooms with shared bathrooms.
You will be meeting your host Alicia Rivero and the resident baqueanos before heading out to the coral where you will be assigned a horse.

Alicia Rivero

Alicia Ximena Rivero Álvarez was born in September 1965. She has a twin sister. The family farm is called Hacienda 3R in honour of her late father, Rafael Rivero Rodríguez, who acquired it in 1962. Alicia has spent her entire life in the countryside and has always been passionate about rural life. Since she was a child, she has showed a strong interest in horses and the countryside.

Over the years, Alicia has been involved in the management of the family ranch, taking a broader approach that includes the protection of the wild (bagual) horses in the area. Recognizing the importance of these animals in local history and culture, Alicia has set out to preserve their existence. Additionally, she has challenged traditional gender roles by working side by side with men in the field and earning their respect.

Alicia considers that women play a fundamental role in rural areas and has assumed the many varied responsibilities involved in successful ranching including caring for the animals and working on the farm. Her vision is to strengthen the presence of women in the area by promoting participation and education in the rural environment. She is committed to supporting any local woman interested in working, learning about horses and joining her cause.

Alicia Rivero Álvarez is a homely, strong and multifaceted woman who has proven her worth as an estanciera (rancher) and who strives to preserve the traditions and importance of bagual horses in the region. Her determination and dedication are an inspiring example for women and girls in the region.

Estancia 3R / Sierra Baguales

Hacienda 3R, located 135 kilometers from Puerto Natales (approximately 2 hours by road), is located in the heart of Chilean Patagonia on the border with Argentina, flanked by the imposing mountain range of Sierra Baguales. With land extending to 6,000 hectares, this ranch has a history deeply rooted in the equine world.

In this remote corner of the southern Patagonia, the owner of the ranch, Alicia Rivero, is dedicated to preserving and protecting the few examples of the wild (bagual) horses that still live in the area. Her vision is to turn this land into a sanctuary for these majestic animals who in the past roamed freely. Today, after years of effort, she has managed to gather and protect at least 100 of these magnificent horses in the process of establishing a sanctuary for their protection.

The Work

The process of separating males that fail to integrate into the herd for subsequent training and veterinary care is a delicate and challenging task. At Hacienda 3R, work has been done to gradually identify the groups that are most trusting in the face of human presence. This is handled using natural horsemanship methods to separate the bagual horses in a respectful manner, based on communication and mutual respect, avoiding the use of force and aggression.

During your 3-day visit to the ranch, you will have the opportunity to witness up close the work that is being done in this unique environment. You will be able to get closer to the herds, participate in the separation of horses that need to be tamed and immerse yourself in the authenticity of rural life and gaucho tradition, establishing a special bond with these noble animals.

The wild horses of Sierra Baguales represent the essence of survival in its purest form; demonstrating exceptional resilience and adaptation to their natural environment.

*Please note the activities and riding on Days 2 and 3 will be decided according to the location of the horses, the weather and the work that has to be done*

Day 3: Day spent with Alicia working with the wild horses of Sierra Baguales. Night Estancia 3R as above. During your time at Estancia 3R you will be also be enjoying a Natural Horsemanship demonstration by renowned Patagonian Horse Whisperer, Abdias Puchi.
Day 4: After a home cooked breakfast we will be saddling up for the ride south to Estancia Cerro Guido. As we journey through this arid and dramatic terrain we will see the granite peaks of Torres del Paine to the west and the mountains that form the natural border with Argentina to the east with stunning mountain views and great wildlife opportunities for most of the ride. After a picnic lunch we will be continuing south through the Las Chinas valley named after the river of the same name. Our destination is Estancia Cerro Guido, located on the north east borders of the Park this estancia offers very comfortable accommodation in twin/double en suite rooms with views of the Towers.
Day 5: Today we will be bidding our horses goodbye. The day starts with a transfer to the picture postcard Laguna Amarga, Bitter Lake, with its salty shores and dark waters reflecting the famous Towers of Paine. Here we will meeting our new horses for our long ride across the heart of the Park with iconic mountain and lake views as we head from east to west. The full distance is approx 45 km with 8-9 hours riding although the ride is vehicle supported enabling you to travel in the vehicle for the final part of the trail if you prefer (shortening the ride to 38 km although riders can jump in the van at any point, the ride ends at the Park administration centre). Our destination is the Serrano River with stunning views of the western face of the Paine Massif. Today’s ride is always a highlight of everybody’s itinerary with its iconic Paine views of the mountains from a southern perspective and diverse wildlife. Night in the comfortable Pampa Lodge with uninterrupted views of the mountains and twin/double en suite rooms.
Day 6: After breakfast you will be saddling up and riding out to Grey Lake, a stunning pampas ride with mountain views throughout. Arrive at Grey Lake and take a walk on the sandy beach often packed with icebergs floating on its surface. Option to take a boat to the face of Grey Glacier (recommended) for an up close and personal encounter with a towering wall of ice. The ride distance is 35 km there and back although if you choose to take the Grey Boat you will return by vehicle making today’s ride 17 km. Return to the Serrano River and meet a private transfer back to Puerto Natales. Night in the waterfront Hotel Costaustralis with views across Last Hope Sound and comfortable twin/double en suite rooms. Farewell dinner included in one of the town’s many excellent restaurants.
Day 7: Transfer to bus station or airport for onward travel.

Is this trip for me?

This NEW 6-day exclusive BlueGreen itinerary is suited to lovers of riding and the outdoors. In the company of an experienced guide and Chilean horsemen you will ride into some remote areas where the only access is on foot or horse. Luggage is moved by vehicle or 4×4 and you are provided with saddle bags to carry water, suncream, lunch box etc.
Accommodation is in a mix of lodgings including a country house lodge, a home-stay ranch house (occupied exclusively), a working estancia, a riverside lodge and a waterfront hotel to celebrate the last night. The accommodation is twin share and has been chosen in the best locations and to reach the best riding away from the main hiking trails. The ride is an authentic experience with as much contact with the local horse culture as possible including a privileged couple of days working with the famous wild horses as part of a conservation project implemented by a local estancia. Accommodation throughout is warm, comfortable, cosy and in great locations. It is not luxury while in the Park (an upgrade is possible at the Serrano River to the Hotel Rio Serrano (with pool and spa, ask for prices). The hotel in Puerto Natales is a 4* waterfront hotel with comfortable spacious rooms and a great location. A dedicated BlueGreen chef will be preparing your meals while staying at Estancia 3R.
Riding experience required for this trip is intermediate to advanced. This is a fairly fast paced ride with some long riding days and a couple of days working with a local estancia to round up, count and treat wild horses that roam the area. Fitness and experience are important. The ride is not suitable for beginner riders.
You will be riding with an experienced English speaking riding guide together with between one and three horsemen (baqueanos) depending on the size of the group. Where practical the riding is supported by a vehicle with a dedicated driver giving options for riders to rest or cut a ride short if required. While at 3R you will be joined by additional horsemen (including local horse whisperer Abdias Puchi and your host Alicia Rivero).
Age limit: 12 – 70 unless by prior arrangement. Young riders need to be experienced and accompanied by an experienced and capable adult. Alternatively, please ask about our custom family trips for riding options for very young riders. Older riders are welcome but may be asked to complete a medical suitability questionnaire.
The trip includes five days riding with varying lengths according to how far you need to ride on a certain day. The work with the wild horses will be entirely due to the location of the horses and the task at hand. You will be riding two different horses during the ride.
This trip is available as a one-off, end of season ride starting on the 4th April 2025.
Solo riders are welcome and a single supplement is not charged if you are willing to share with another rider of the same gender (otherwise, the single supplement is US$738 limited single accommodation available in some areas)
Travel insurance is mandatory as is the wearing of suitable head gear (a full packing list is provided prior to departure).
Prices start at US$6,150 per person (group of 6 riders, 24/25 season). Prices are inclusive of private transfers in/out and vehicle support during the ride where practical; all accommodation and meals stated (with wine in ranch stays); English speaking riding guide with Chilean baqueanos to care for the horses; truck to move horses in some areas; natural horsemanship demonstration, cook to prepare meals in ranch stay; all riding and activities as detailed; saddle bags & helmets; entrance fees; ground support provided by our experienced logistics team based in Puerto Natales
Please contact us for a copy of the itinerary.

Destinations

5-day Torres del Paine Glacier Ride

Don your riding boots and ride out into the beautiful wilderness with true Patagonian cowboys on this exciting taster ride in the fabulous Torres del Paine National Park.

Highlights

Canter across the wide open spaces of the Patagonia pampas with the wind in your hair
Ride to Grey Beach to see Glacier Grey and witness Paine’s largest highway of ice
Camp close to the abundant waters of the Serrano River
Unzip your tent on some of Patagonia’s most eye popping vistas
Ride along shores of mirror top lakes beneath giant craggy peaks as you hone your riding skills
Picnic lakeside on the sandy beach of Laguna Azul, with views of the famous Towers of Paine
Observe agile guanacos as they scatter across the landscape in front of you
Imagine life as a cowboy (or cowgirl) as you ride into Patagonia’s version of the wild west
Eat some typical Patagonian food and meet some of the people who call this place home

Extras

Add boat trip to the face of Grey Glacier, US$135 per person
Single supplement (for those who prefer not to share, on request)

Day by day

Day 1: Arrive into Puerto Natales. Transfer to historic Puerto Bories located on the Senoret Channel a few miles outside Puerto Natales. Sleep in Bories House, an English style villa with traditional Patagonian architecture and comfortable en suite rooms a short walk from Last Hope Sound. Dinner and guide’s briefing at Afrigonia in Puerto Natales offering a fusion of African and Patagonian cuisine.
Day 2: After breakfast, you will be taking a private transfer to an area known as Canadon Macho located close to Laguna Azul in the north eastern section of the Park. Here you will meet your horses and enjoy a safety briefing before setting out towards Laguna Cebolla and Victorina located north east of the Paine mountains with dramatic mountain views and plenty of opportunities to see the agile guanaco and other wildlife. After our full day’s ride of around 28 kilometres (5-6 hours) you will be heading back to Laguna Azul where you will be spending the night camping in a very pretty campsite with bathrooms and hot showers and a BlueGreen chef to prepare meals. All gear provided with sleeping bags, liners and mats included.
Day 3: Today you will be setting out on a long ride across the heart of the Park with iconic mountain and lake views as you head from east to west. The full distance is 48 km with 8-9 hours riding although the ride is vehicle supported enabling you to travel in the vehicle for the final part of the trail if you prefer (shortening the ride to 38 km although riders can jump in the van at any point, the ride ends at the Park administration centre). Our destination is the Serrano River with stunning views of the western face of the Paine Massif. Today’s ride is always a highlight of everybody’s itinerary with its iconic Paine views of the mountains from a southern perspective and diverse wildlife. Night in a riverside camp with bathrooms and hot showers and a BlueGreen chef to prepare meals and all gear provided with sleeping bags, liners and mats included.
Day 4: After your camp breakfast you will be saddling up and riding out to Grey Lake, a stunning pampas ride with mountain views throughout. Arrive at Grey Lake and take a walk on the sandy beach often packed with icebergs floating on its surface. Option to take a boat to the face of Grey Glacier (recommended) for an up close and personal encounter with a towering wall of ice. The ride distance is 35 km there and back although if you choose to take the Grey Boat you will return by vehicle making today’s ride 17 km. Return to the Serrano River for a second night camping.
Day 5: After breakfast you will be rejoining your horses at the campsite for the lovely pampas ride to the much photographed Puente Weber with dramatic mountain views throughout. You will then start a slow climb of the Sierra del Toro with jaw dropping views of the Paine and Balmaceda mountain range below. Once you reach the lookout at the summit you can enjoy the far reaching views before setting out through the grassy trails past a myriad of pretty lakes and forests with stunning mountain views that change at every turn. Arrive at Estancia Lazo located on the shores of Laguna Verde in the south of the Park with, we think, some of the best (and lesser known) views of the Paine Massif from a southern perspective. Enjoy the views before bidding your horses goodbye and jumping in your van for the private transfer back to Puerto Natales. Distance approx 22 kilometres (4-5 hours). Night Bories House. Wine tasting and special farewell dinner at El Cormoran de las Rocas.
Day 6: Transfer to bus station or airport for onward travel.

Is this trip for me?

This 5-day exclusive BlueGreen itinerary is suited to lovers of riding and the outdoors. In the company of an experienced guide and Chilean horsemen you will ride through some of Torres del Paine’s most iconic landscapes. Luggage is moved by vehicle or 4×4 and you are provided with saddle bags to carry water, suncream, lunch box etc.
Accommodation is in a mix of lodgings including a country house hotel in Puerto Natales and three nights sleeping outside in tents while in the Park. The campsites have been chosen in the best locations and to reach the best riding away from the main hiking trails. All gear is provided when camping and a dedicated BlueGreen chef will be preparing your meals.
Riding experience required for this trip is intermediate. This is a moderately fast paced ride with some long riding days with options to travel in the vehicle due to tiredness. Although not suitable for beginner riders this trip would suit someone who has ridden in the past but whose skills are rusty.
You will be riding with an experienced English speaking riding guide together with between one and three horsemen (baqueanos) depending on the size of the group. Where practical the riding is supported by a vehicle with dedicated driver giving options for riders to rest or cut a ride short if required.
Age limit: 12 – 70 unless by prior arrangement. Young riders should be experienced and accompanied by an experienced and capable adult. Alternatively, please ask about our custom family trips for riding options for very young riders. Older riders are welcome but may be asked to complete a medical suitability questionnaire.
The trip includes four days riding with varying lengths according to how far you need to ride on a certain day. You will be riding your own assigned horse throughout the trip (horses will be moved by truck where necessary).
This trip is available on request for 2+ riders between November and March. The maximum group size is an intimate 6 riders.
Solo riders are welcome and a single supplement is not charged if you are willing to share with another rider of the same gender (otherwise, ask about the options for single accommodation)
Travel insurance is mandatory as is the wearing of suitable head gear (a full packing list is provided prior to departure).
Prices start at US$3,850 per person (group of 6 riders, 24/25 season). Prices are inclusive of private transfers in/out and vehicle support during the ride where practical; all accommodation and meals stated; English speaking riding guide with Chilean baqueanos to care for the horses; truck to move horses in some areas; all riding and activities as detailed; saddle bags & helmets; entrance fees; ground support provided by our experienced logistics team based in Puerto Natales.
Please contact us for a detailed itinerary (if you prefer to sleep inside at night we can send details of our 5-day Estancia Ride).

Destinations

Bariloche & Argentine Lake District

Alto Chubut Ride (Bariloche, Argentina)

Ride out into the remote mountain range and foothills of the Alto Chubut massif, a rugged, isolated terrain where you can switch off and immerse yourself in nature

Highlights

Ride out on well cared for and locally bred Criollo cross horses, a noble breed well adapted to the conditions and mountain terrain
Ride across high mountain passes and through valleys with plenty of exciting river crossings
Journey through some of the Northern Patagonia’s isolated ranges and landscapes
Sample local trout or nourishing lamb asado washed down with Argentine wine
Sleep in a comfortable riverside yurt on the banks of the Chubut River heated by wood burner
Unplug from beeping phones as you spend seven unforgettable days with your trusty horse and small group of riders for company
Ride out with Argentine gauchos and listen to their stories as you sip mate around the fire.
Sleep outside in tents in silent star-filled landscapes with no light or noise pollution
Canter across the wide open pampas and grassy valleys on your fit Criollo horse.

Extras

Contact us if you wish to extend this trip with a short ride in Torres del Paine, either a multi-day point to point ride or an estancia based experience to complement your riding in Argentina
We can add other experiences, accommodation or activities in the Lakes region of Bariloche or further south in the renowned Los Glaciares National Park.

Day by day

Day 1: Arrive into Bariloche in the heart of the Patagonia Andes in northern Patagonia. Transfer to hotel. Explore the city and do some last minute shopping for the ride. Guide’s briefing over dinner at a traditional steak restaurant. Night hotel.
Day 2: After breakfast you will head south on Argentina’s famous Ruta 40 that crosses the country from north to south. Pass through the Lakes area and the renowned Nahuel Huapi National Park before reaching the immense steppe where you will arrive at El Sapucai, a comfortable riverside yurt camp and base in the cordillera. Meet your horse and settle into this isolated valley. Enjoy a short introductory ride before dinner. Night yurts.
Day 3: Start the adventure after breakfast with a safety briefing before leaving the mountain refuge and heading along the Chubut River banks to meet a local family. Continue riding to the Cerrucho stream where we will set up camp protected in a forest of Nire trees. Afternoon visit to a waterfall, the only one in the area. Approx 4-5 hours in the saddle. Night camping.
Day 4: After our camp breakfast we will continue climbing as the terrain gets more technical and the landscape larger and more imposing. After crossing an ancient Lenga forest we stop for lunch near the source of the Chubut River which flows into the Atlantic. After lunch we cross the Paso Sin Nombre at 1,700 metres above sea level. Riding for another two hours to our refuge where we will spend the night we see the source of another important river, the Foyel River which flows into the Pacific Ocean. Arrive at mountain refuge at the foot of Cerro Carreras where we will spend the night. Approx 4-5 hours in the saddle. Night refuge.
Day 5: After a delicious breakfast we will start our descent following the Foyel River as we pass two high altitude lagoons and the Pantanoso stream comes into view. Following the course of this small stream we arrive at the junction of the Chubut River where the two rivers converge and continue downstream. Set up camp. Approx 4 hours in the saddle. Night camping.
Day 6: Continue descending the Chubut River as the waters flow between the native forests in this area. Witness rock formations forming abstract sculptures on the horizon. Continue riding to El Sapucai where a delicious meal and hot shower awaits. Rest and relax riverside while dinner is prepared. Approx 4-5 hours in the saddle. Night yurts.
Day 7: After breakfast we will be saddling up and heading out into the nearby mountain range with panoramic views of the surrounding Andes peaks. As our sure footed horses pick their way through the uneven terrain we will reach an area with a 360 degree view of the lagoons and surrounding peaks with their eternal snow. Returning by a different trail through stunted Nire and Lenga forests before we reach El Sapucai. Approx 6-8 hours in the saddle. Night yurts.
Day 8: Today is our last day with our horses as we follow the course of the Chubut River until reaching the Escuela Vieja. This 2-3 hour, quiet ride offers diverse landscapes and the first villages of the people who make these valleys home. After sharing a final picnic with our horsemen (baqueanos) we will be bidding them goodbye and taking a transfer back to the city of Bariloche. Night hotel in Bariloche.
Day 9: Private transfer from hotel to Bariloche airport.

Is this trip for me?

Join this 9 day scheduled ride for experienced riders with departures from November to March offering 7 days riding on fit, responsive Criollo cross horses.
The trails offer diverse scenery and landscapes, not overly complex but with some rocky passes, narrow trails and river crossings. The pace will be set according to the distance required each day but with long daylight hours until 10 p.m there is plenty of time to explore at a pace suitable for everybody.
The weather can be unpredictable and in case of rain, it may be necessary to dismount and lead the horse in certain areas. The time and route can also need to change in the event of bad weather but the guides are experienced and will advise you if this is necessary. You should be prepared for all weather conditions, mentally and in your packing; winds can be high and the ride can be hot, cold, windy and raining/snowing with temperatures between -3 to +30 degrees celsius.
The trip is a great option for single riders and no supplement is charged if you are prepared to share with another member of the same gender. If you want guaranteed single accommodation, contact us for the single supplement.
El Sapucai camp/yurts – this cosy Patagonian refuge is located on the banks of the Chubut River in an isolated location in the foothills. The house has a warm kitchen/dining room where delicious meals are cooked over a wood fired stove, bathroom with wood burner, dining room and living room with wood burning stove. Outside a small stream separates the house from the 3 yurts. Each one has wooden floors, a private bathroom, wood heating and full beds for 2/3/4 people. The solid construction and warm interiors allow you to enjoy a well deserved rest.
The riding takes place in some isolated areas and a satellite phone is carried for emergencies. A first aid kit is carried. Travel insurance is mandatory with medical insurance and evacuation included.
During the ride there is no possibility to access phone or internet services or charge devices so if you are using phones as a camera you should carry extra battery packs.
Water is taken from mountain springs and rivers, it is clean and there is no risk drinking it. However if you have concerns you should bring a filtered water bottle or water purification tablets.
All guides are WFR (Wilderness First Responder) and first aid trained. They are experienced and knowledgeable about the region, the people and the culture. Horsemen (baqueanos) will help you saddle up, prepare the horses and adjust saddles/stirrups etc.
Saddle bags are provided (not waterproof). A full packing list is available on request.
The wearing of a riding helmet is mandatory
The trip is available on set departures through the season, for 24/25 these are; 11-19 November (confirmed/places available), 8-16 December (open, yet to confirm), 11-19 February (space for one rider remaining), 6-14 March (open, yet to confirm). Contact us for up to date availability. Prices start at US$3,030 per person. Prices include private transfers in/out, meals (with limited wine at dinner), riding as detailed, accommodation with all camping gear provided except sleeping bags which can be rented, English speaking guides, horsemen to care for horses, satellite phone, pack horses and extra horses in case of tiredness or injury.
Contact us for alternative, shorter multi-activity itineraries with nights at El Sapucai and trekking, riding, river activities between October and the end of April. These experiences are a great option for families as they are suitable for beginner riders. Prices for 3 inclusive nights start at US$1,080 per person or US$1,290 per person with 3 days riding (discounts for children under 15 years). Private custom trips available with a premium.

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